Gov. LePage will not run for U.S. Senate in 2018, advisor says

(NEWS CENTER) — Gov. Paul LePage has decided against entering the 2018 race for U.S. Senate.

According to a statement from the governor released Wednesday by a senior political advisor, LePage plans to "remain focused on the job at hand" and to not pursue the office.

"Governor Paul LePage has helped the State of Maine achieve the largest number of private sector jobs in history, implement the largest tax cut in state history, and implement reforms which have resulted in Maine showing a significant revenue surplus earlier this year," the statement reads, "and, while these accomplishments are great, there is more to do."

LePage was long rumored to have been considering a run to challenge incumbent Sen. Angus King.

In mid-April during a speech in Orono, LePage accused King of using Maine politics as a stepping stone to increasing his personal wealth through investments in wind energy. The governor later acknowledged speculation surrounding a possible run, telling MPBN he was "seriously contemplating" the race.

When asked if LePage was being considered for a spot in the Trump Administration, his advisor told NEWS CENTER, "No comment."

"Governor LePage is a tremendous leader for conservative principles, limiting the role of government to protect the liberty of the little guy," the statement reads. "As he focuses on fighting for the people of Maine as our Governor, I look forward to working with him to end the reign of Angus King and restore liberty for little guy --- not only in Maine --- but down in Washington, DC."